The average condition of adult male and female polar bears as well as that of independent cubs has declined significantly in the western Hudson Bay area. Long-term warming trends appear to be responsible for early ice breakup.

This decline in ice pack reduces the time the bears can hunt seals. Warmer conditions have also resulted in the collapse of polar bear dens, which have killed the mothers and pups inside. On a global scale, Arctic ice has been reduced by almost fifteen percent over the past 20 years.

You can help these bears by learning more about what you can do to reduce the effects of global warming. Recycling, carpooling and conserving resources can all help to slow the decline of these magnificent bears. The things you do at home on a daily basis really can have an effect on the arctic.